Following a rigorous two-stage judging process, finalists in the 2026 Women in Packaging Awards have been selected, reflecting the depth of talent, leadership and innovation shaping Australasia’s packaging sector.
The judges have concluded deliberations, with this year’s finalists representing one of the strongest fields to date after a record number of entries in several categories. Winners will be announced on 25 June, at a cocktail event in Melbourne.
Across all categories, judges noted a marked uplift in both the quality and depth of submissions, with entries demonstrating not only individual achievement, but measurable impact across businesses, supply chains and the broader packaging ecosystem.
A consistent theme throughout the judging sessions was the calibre of leadership on display – from emerging talent stepping confidently into influence, to established professionals driving systemic change within organisations and across industry. Judges highlighted the growing maturity of submissions, with many entrants clearly articulating strategy, execution and outcomes, supported by robust evidence and real-world results.
Overall, the judging discussions reflected an industry in transition – one that is tackling complex challenges while continuing to innovate, collaborate and lead.
Finalists across all categories are listed below in alphabetical order by surname.
Communications & Marketing Excellence Award
Julia Casey – Packserv
Anna Dreyer – Heat and Control
Gemma Duff – East Coast Canning & Printing
Nicole Krupp – Canon Production Printing Australia
Design & Branding Excellence Award
Madeleine Barnett – Koala
Gwen Blake – Boxer Brands
Nicole Ohm – Brownes Dairy
Manufacturing Leader Award
Sarah Coleman – J&P Flexographics
Shirley Fitzsimons – Clearpack Flexible Packaging
Deanne Holdsworth – Pact Group
Joanne Hoos – HMPS Propac
Anina Immelman – Opal
Norwind Khor – Amcor
Miryl Parker – Amcor
Maria Perez Gomez – Orora Cans
Helen Tutton – Amcor
Frauke Tyrrell – NCI Packaging
Packaging Technology Leader Award
Michaela Cooke – Ego Pharmaceuticals
Francesca Puleio – Phantm
Liza Vernalls – Yates Group
Rising Star Award
Madeleine Barnett – Koala
Ramya Bijesh – Aesthetics Skincare
Emma Edwards – Aesthetics Skincare
Tahlia Graetz – Orora Glass
Maisha Maliha – Yates Group
Tara O’Brien – Opal
Marian O'Leary – Mainland Dairy
Rhea Singh – Planet Protector Group
Kelsey Smith – Birunji
Ola Wicik – Opal Packaging
STEM Explorer Award
Ann Anthony – Pilz Australia
Cathy Parra – Opal
Vernah Rajiah – TNA Solutions
Lauren Wood – Opal
Sustainability Leader Award
Abigail Davey – Orora Global Glass
Shannon Doherty-Andall – Australian Beverages Council
Hannah Glover – Close the Loop Packaging
Jessica Hegarty – ITW Construction
Christie Kamphuis – Bettercup
Priscilla Lepoutre – Amcor
Lea Maguero – BioPak
Jasmine Medwell – Woolworths Group
Wendy Penn – Disruptive Packaging
Rebecca Percasky & Kate Bezar – Better Packaging Co.
Flavia Vaz – Tetra Pak
Nancy Wei – Pact Group
Congratulations to all the finalists! Winners will be announced at a cocktail award presentation, taking place from 6pm at Quarterhouse, Docklands in Melbourne on 25 June. Tickets available here.
PKN thanks the judges for their valuable time and effort spent in the assessment process, and the sponsors for making it possible to run the programme, now in its third year.
